by John Marshall

“ I shall also write to Sir Henry Hotham, and perhaps the Rear-Admiral may strengthen our means here, so that we may fully avail ourselves of such opportunity of pushing the royal cause with vigour and celerity, and of cherishing the excellent disposition with which all here seem inspired. I have just learnt that the enemy evacuated the fort of Verdun last night, and retired with his garrison. ”

“ We have sent a force on shore to dismantle and destroy the guns, &c. This is the fort which disputed our entrance, and it is a very strong work.
“I have also the pleasure to add, that the propositions of the Baron de Montalembert, and his mission, have hitherto been every where attended with success. The forts and the positions are gradually pulling down their tri-coloured flags, and hoisting that of their legitimate sovereign; and several of them have saluted the squadron upon their hoisting the white flag. ”

“ When the Swiftsure appeared off Civita Vecchia, a French officer of distinction came on board with a flag of truce; hut nothing was then decided upon. At another time, when some Neapolitan vessels, supposing the place was evacuated by the French, were making towards it, the French armed-boats, and gun-vessels of a large size, pushed out to bring them in; but the boats of the Swiftsure were sent to their assistance, and soon made the enemy retire, pursuing them with great spirit till under the guns of their own batteries, and nearly capturing them. ”